By Prince Chese
VISITING Vhembe Stars FC lost by two goals to nil in an agonisingly poorly officiated match last Saturday in an away match to Mawabeni FC.
Some of the referee’s errors were so glaring that even some of his assistants opposed his decisions only to eat the humble pie when he stood with his decisions.
But his most amazing moment came with the second goal by the home team when a striker, lost alone unmarked deep in the visitors’ half, latched on to a pass and went on to score.
Even supporters of the home team were astonished by the gift from the referee whose assistant had her flag high, only to be cowed to admission when the man in the centre signalled a goal.
The controversial match was part of the ZIFA Division 2 league.
The first goal came just eight minutes into the match after a penalty was awarded. The referee pointed to the spot when a Mawabeni striker easily fell inside the box — a decision some felt was harsh.
However, the most disputed moment was the second goal. The assistant referee clearly flagged for offside, but the referee allowed the goal to stand, ignoring the signal.
The assistant later lowered the flag, and the goal counted.
This incident added to frustrations already boiling over on the Vhembe bench.
Vhembe Stars, who had won the first leg earlier in the season, were visibly disappointed with the loss.
Team manager Kelvin Mahoro criticised the officiating, saying the referees’ poor decisions affected the players’ mental focus.
“Our players lost concentration because of the referee and the linesman, who didn’t manage the game well,” said Mahoro.
Despite the setback, Mahoro said the team was turning its focus to their upcoming fixture.
“We face Manama on 19 October at Dulibadzimu Stadium. We are playing at home and we promise our fans 3 points. We’re determined to bounce back,” he said.